Microsoft's Reference Architecture for Media & Cable

Delivering content in multiple formats (think VHS and Beta) and across multiple channels (FTA, Web, VOD) has become the minimum required functionality for entering the business. Packaging content for a variety of delivery methods including download, linear broadcast and smooth streaming on the Web requires workflow management and end to end quality of service (QOS) capabilities that most broadcasters lack today.

Content Creation & Production

Collaboration on content, stories, scripts, rundowns, production notes, modifications, etc. on the organizational side of content creation is complimented by capturing the content itself. Photos, video and/or sound, technologies should ideally provide for digital interfaces, feeds and backups which preserve content integrity at the highest required quality. Having captured both the essence and metadata, it is essential to ensure these are maintained synchronously throughout editing and processing to maximize utility and value.

Content Acquisition & Management

Much content is acquired (and often also sold) to other contracted partners. Once in place, this content must be sourced from the supplier (or sent to the buyer) in the required format. Masters are acquired (sent) via uplinks, file transfers, video feeds, tapes etc. . This content is ingested, cataloged, its metadata indexed and augmented, archived , and video proxies created.

This function is to secure, preserve and transform the content and its derivations so that this valuable asset can be quickly and efficiently leveraged for subsequent utilization.

Standards, Compliance & QC

In each market there are technical guidelines to validate delivered content. Sometimes these are related to the integrity of the sound or video quality or compression levels, sometimes these standards are the final check for content standards related to legislative requirements. The objective of these systems and processes is to ensure that only the right content with the right quality and in conformance to operational licensing is delivered to the consumer on behalf of the broadcaster.

Automation, Master Control & Digital Platform

Automation systems tie the business directives of a playlist, content windows for VOD, live content and control room infrastructure. These mission critical systems in ensure that a quality signal is acquired for various sources (live link, file feed, server, web etc.), processed and delivered to the right place (i.e. head end, transmitter, uplink or web).These need to sequence all digital and legacy devices, support system coordination of electronic and digital processes across the control room and ensure extremely high service and availability levels.